Waste/UPW O&M Technician - Full Time Internship

Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, United States Department: Operations & Maintenance

LotusWorks is an Engineering Services provider specializing in managing Commissioning, Construction Services, Calibration, Operations & Maintenance scopes of work within global manufacturing facilities. LotusWorks operates globally across EMEA and North America partnering with the world's leading manufacturers across the Semiconductor, Pharmaceutical & Biologics, Medical Device and Data Center sectors. Our team of Engineering and Technical professionals is immersed in cutting-edge technologies and innovations. LotusWorks is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, integral to our people-first approach.

We are seeking a motivated and mechanically inclined Waste / Ultra-Pure Water (UPW) Operations & Maintenance Technician Intern to support the operation and maintenance of critical water and wastewater systems within a semiconductor or mission-critical facility.

This role provides hands-on experience with advanced UPW generation, distribution, and wastewater treatment systems, while working alongside experienced technicians and engineers in a highly regulated, safety-focused environment.

Responsibilities

Support daily operations of UPW generation and distribution systems, including reverse osmosis (RO), electrodeionization (EDI), ion exchange, degasification, UV oxidation, and sub-micron filtration systems under supervision.

Assist in operating and monitoring wastewater treatment systems, including neutralization systems, pH adjustment, chemical dosing, lift stations, equalization tanks, and biological processes (e.g., MBR/BNR where applicable).

Perform routine rounds and system readings; record key parameters such as conductivity, resistivity, TOC, pH, flow rates, pressures, and tank levels, and escalate abnormal conditions.

Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment including pumps, valves, filters, membranes, mixers, blowers, and chemical delivery systems.

Support water quality monitoring and sampling activities to ensure compliance with process requirements and environmental discharge permits.

Assist with chemical handling and dosing operations (acids, caustics, and treatment chemicals) in accordance with site safety procedures and SDS requirements.

Support system flushing, regeneration, and sanitization of UPW systems, including resin beds, RO skids, and distribution loops.

Assist in troubleshooting system issues such as membrane fouling, scaling, flow restrictions, pump failures, and instrumentation inaccuracies.

Learn and apply safety procedures including lockout/tagout (LOTO), hazardous chemical handling, and confined space entry.

Support startup and shutdown activities for UPW and wastewater systems, ensuring controlled and compliant operation.

Assist in maintaining accurate CMMS documentation (e.g., Maximo), including work orders, calibration records, and maintenance logs.

Observe and support vendor activities such as membrane cleaning, media replacement, and system performance testing.

Participate in Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) programs, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, compliance, and water conservation.

Develop an understanding of semiconductor water quality standards, contamination risks, and the critical nature of UPW systems for manufacturing operations.

Any other duties or responsibilities that may be assigned to you in your role.

Skills Required

Exposure to semiconductor, data center, pharmaceutical, or other mission-critical environments

Basic knowledge of water/wastewater treatment processes (not required)

Familiarity with CMMS systems (e.g., Maximo) is a plus

Enrollment in or recent completion of a technical program (mechanical, environmental, or related field)

Mechanically inclined with a strong interest in hands-on technical work

Basic understanding of mechanical systems (pumps, piping, valves, etc.)

Willingness to learn and work in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment

Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety

Education / Licenses / Certifications

High school diploma or equivalent

Proof of education, licenses, and certifications will be required where applicable

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LotusWorks is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered.